Weekly Overview: Second ISA Outbreak Reported in Chile

ANALYSIS - Over the last week, a further case of Infectious Salmon Anaemia (ISA) has been reported in Chile, writes Lucy Towers, TheFishSite Editor.

Multiexport Foods confirmed that the second outbreak occurred in one of its farms and that 24,700 Atlantic salmon have now been harvested at the site.

Although the government is confident in its biosecurity and monitoring regime, the most recent outbreak led to a 4.54 per cent decrease in the company's share price on the Santiago Stock Exchange.

Fish farmers in India can now benefit from the availability of cheaper Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, broodstock.

The high quality shrimp seed, which is more tolerant and requires less protein in the diet, was produced by the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture in India.

This project will help Indian farmers to produce 1.35 lakh MT of additional shrimp for export worth around Rs. 4000 crores per annum.

Research by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) has found a way to use satellite remote sensing data to track bluefin tuna in the Mediterranean in real time. The technology hopes to provide a clearer picture of their migratory patterns, leading to better protection of their endangered stocks.

"We hope the insight on migration patterns and habitat change that this project brings could not only improve fisheries management but also lead to a rebuilding of stocks,” said Jean-Noel Druon, who leads the research at the JRC.

Fish stocks and fish farms across the world are at an increasing threat from Harmful Algal Blooms (HABS).

Research by scientists has shown that HAB's are increasing in frequency, size and geographical location. Although no clear cause has been identified, the increase has been linked with human activities, climate change and increased knowledge.

In company news, the Spanish fishing company Pescanova has filed for bankruptcy whilst continuing operations.

It is vital that fish farm operatives who are responsible for farmed fish are trained in their health and
welfare. This will help to ensure that fish are free from disease and suffering whilst at the same time
promote good productivity and comply with legislation.